Nelson Mandela University

Nelson Mandela University is a comprehensive university based in Gqeberha, with a campus in George. It opened on 1 January 2005 and took Nelson Mandela's name in its current form in 2017. South African applicants pay no application fee, and the university offers both degrees and career-focused diplomas.

About Nelson Mandela University

The university formed through a merger of the University of Port Elizabeth and the PE Technikon. The Port Elizabeth campus of Vista University had joined the University of Port Elizabeth a year earlier, on 2 January 2004. The new institution was first called Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. On 20 July 2017, it officially became Nelson Mandela University.

Campuses

The university has campuses in Nelson Mandela Bay and in George. In Gqeberha, these include its Summerstrand campuses, the Missionvale campus and the Ocean Sciences Campus, which focuses on marine and coastal studies. Its George campus is at Saasveld, in the Southern Cape. Your campus depends on your programme.

Applying to Nelson Mandela University

The university uses two application rounds. For the 2027 intake, MBChB, Nursing, BPharm and Radiography closed on 30 June 2026. Early applications for other programmes closed on 3 August 2026, and late applications on 30 September 2026. Student housing applications also closed on 30 September 2026.

A programme may close before these dates if it reaches capacity. Final selection for 2027 takes place in January 2027, once the final matric results are out. South African citizens pay no application fee, while international applicants pay a non-refundable R500.

Fees and funding

Tuition depends on your programme, and residence adds to the cost. The university publishes its fees each year, and it said that 2027 postgraduate fees would be available from November 2026. Qualifying students can apply for NSFAS. Browse our bursaries for more funding options.

Is Nelson Mandela University right for you?

The university suits students who want to study in the Eastern Cape or the Southern Cape, with a wide choice between degrees and diplomas. Its ocean sciences focus also makes it a strong choice for marine-related careers. Since early applications close in August, aim for that round rather than the late one.

Before you apply to Nelson Mandela University

Check whether your programme falls in the June group, such as medicine, nursing, pharmacy and radiography, or in the general rounds. Then compare your marks with the admission requirements in the university's 2027 application guidelines. Apply for student housing at the same time if you need it. Since final selection happens in January, make sure your contact details stay current until your matric results are out.